The End Times

Chapter 25: The Rise of Joseph Brooklyn

Equestria, Unknown

Thunder cracks through the skies above Equestria, dark clouds covering the once glorious blue sky of day and shall cover the stars of the night. This wasn't any normal weather the Equestrians had seen before in a very very long time. They haven't heard of the weather ponies doing anything to this extent and make things worse for the ears, the weathers ponies nor unicorns can't seem to control it. Heavy rain pours all over the land with thunder striking occasionally onto different lands, almost like it was striking specific places on purpose. The wind blew hard and chillingly through the densest corners of Equestria...tall of this started to cause the ponies to worry but can only hope Celestia and Luna can solve the issues.

Discord is sitting in custom stone throne on top of the highest mountain that watches over Equestia longingly, as if he is looking through the land. Memories from hundreds of years ago return like it was yesterday, the days of him battling against Celestia and Luna 'if only...I hadn't held back against them...Equestria would have been in my grasp! Celestia...Luna...today...I will NOT hold back...I may be weaker than that day but I'll make you fight for Equestia!' thought Discord, his balled up fists shaking from anger.

But the scowl on Discord's face slowly turns into a menacing grin and he calmly relaxes his arms behind his back, chuckling to himself "soon, very very soon..." he whispers before disappearing into thin air.

The odd shaped being teleports himself into the throne room he had been recuperating his power while making plans alongside his mysterious ally The Man or M, who so happened to be sitting on a wooden chair, looking out of a window. It's hard to read anything with that strange mask of some sort of other man and wearing a silver suit "I have to admit...I sometimes feel weary about you M" said Discord.

M didn't look away from the window, sitting still, very calmly "you are wise to think that way Lord Discord, I once thought to trust others until I learned the hard fact of reality and the sacrifices that must be made in order to keep walking down the path that we wish not to deter from. However, in situations for revenge, setbacks must be made to accomplish that" said M, slowly standing up and turns towards his superior.

Discord snorts a little and lays down on his throne "true...but it doesn't mean I have to trust you even after everything you're doing to help me."

M nods a little bit and slowly walks forward "again, a wise thought...and for my part in all of this is the human living amongst the ponies, that is my goal. Why is he my goal? Let's just say it's complicated but answers shall be clear once we advance our plan...shall we begin Lord Discord?"

"Hmph! I like your style...Guards! Bring them in" Shouts Discord and his fingers click, making the doors open.

As the doors open at a slow speed, they noticed 3 familiar figures walking into Discord's throne room. Of course, it would be a crime if they didn't think of 'The Great and Powerful Trixie!' as she proudly strode through with her head held high. Instead of wearing her usual attire, she now wears the Dark Cloaks' black cape and hood. The unicorn smirks proudly and bows graciously "the great and powerful Trixie is ready to serve! As long as I have my revenge."

The Man looks at her intensely "that's good to hear, I been watching your train in the darker areas of magic and it seems the Dark Walkers have-"

"Aha! That's a question! Tell me why does the name of this organisation keep changing everything single time? They were called Dark Cloaks, Dark Mages and-" Trixie cuts M off rudely but in return, so does he.

"Shut up...you don't get to know that reason" he growls softly, making the blue pony shudder.

Discord notices a female Griffon, Lady Tara walking steady into his throne room also but wearing pieces of armour on her chest, torso. Her coat colour is a dark red which is finely groomed, her hair is spiky and white with some red on the tips and the eyes are a piercing red colour.
M watches Tara bow her head slightly towards Discord and almost ignored M "Lady Tara, how good to see you again. We trust that you've been working hard on recruiting more griffons for our cause?"

Lady Tara glances at The Man but looks back at Discord "Yes, I was able to recruit more which made a company of 100 Griffons. All are experienced, outcasts and seek glory."

M slowly walks up to Tara with his mask near her face, staring down at her confident eyes which slowly moved up to meet his M's mask "remember Lady Tara, their glory is within service of Lord Discord. If it comes to question about your loyalty, I will personally arrange that issue, just never forget that he is giving your lives a purpose to fight and live on. If you want to make an uprising against the current Griffon council, know your place here...understood?" he said firmly.

The female Griffon simply locks her eyes into his soulless eye sockets "Loud and clear" she said.

Suddenly, a loud crash is heard outside the throne room in the hallway along with shouting and fighting! Trixie turns around looking frightened as a rabbit, Tara paid no attention to the commotion in a way she feels it's unworthy taking note.
Discord laughs slightly, already foreseeing what is happening, not needing the use of simple powers "oh my, that must be Eitrig having one of his anger fits! Everyone! Take cover and find some popcorn!" he says with glee.

A large Diamond Dog with red eyes and armour over his body, growls loudly while stomping into the throne room and glares at everyone "this better be good! I'm sick and tired of waiting around!"

The Man walks over to Eitrig, hands in pockets "calm yourself Eitrig, midnight is when we move out."

Eitrig looks at M with a slight hint of joy but not quite sure if he wants to show that "This midnight? Finally! My revenge will be complete!" he roars.

Trixie looks at the Diamond Dog, wondering who he was growling about after all these days, deciding to have some courage the unicorn stands straight "S...Sir Eitrig...I am curious, who exactly is this being you want so badly for revenge?"

The Diamond Dog glares fiercely at a tiny little pony "What!? Haven't I told you since we met!? BAH! And like you're any different wanting revenge! All I want is to kill the human who had ruined me many years ago! Kirk of Humanity!"

"Kirk? Wait...but I remember reading a newspaper about a human falling from the sky and his name was-" Trixie ponders.

Eitrig slams his fists into the ground next to her, causing Trixie to shriek loudly! "IT IS KIRK! I WILL NOT-"

"ENOUGH!" The Man yells so loudly that even mountains trembled slightly.

Everyone including Discord who was having a time of his life watching all this and Lady Tara, slightly surprised to hear The Man shout.
M adjusts his fine suit "now that we have your divine attention, it is time to assemble the plans and rouse the troops for war..."

Discord snaps his fingers and appears with everyone from the throne room on a hill "now my subjects, observe!"

They all look down from the hill to see 3 large groups separated by their species. As promised from Lady Tara, there are 100 armoured Griffons in immaculate formation, ready for battle and bow to Discord...but deep down to Lady Tara "Tonight! We shall show our might for Lord Discord and prove that we are the TRUE Griffons to rule the Griffon Council and seek glory once more!"

The Man looks at Discord, wondering what Discord thinks of her choice of words, his greatness simply smirks and nods to let her off. In fact, it only made the Griffons have more will to fight more. But then, it is Eitrig's turn to make a rousing and inspiration speech that will even make all Diamond Dogs shed a tear "Diamond Dogs! SMASH THE PONIES! BREAK KIRK!" he roars.

Discord snorts, covering his mouth and looks at M almost fainting "Maybe we thought too much of Eitrig?"

The Man silently shake his head in disbelief but calmly walks over to the cliff with Discord as they look over the Griffons, Diamond Dogs and the Dark Walkers all ready and prepared to move out on Discord's command...and that's just what he'll do "All of you are ready to sacrifice yourself for me! Tonight will be a day unlike anything you all have ever witnessed. It shall be the great demise of Celestia and Luna! Equestria shall fall into my palms and I will be supreme ruler of this land, and of course you all will be rewarded for your noble efforts! Just...come back alive, don't fret if you can't...at least die TRYING!" his voice booms across the area. Earning roars and cries for battle.

The Man goes next to his leader and whispers "lord Discord, I have been informed that the devices are ready to be moved out when midnight strikes."

Discord smiles to himself "marvellous! I guess I better make my own cheesy speech."

The odd figure slowly walks towards the cliff, head held high and hands behind his back. He stops and stares down at his 'subjects' "for too long! Have we all been oppressed by the 'beloved' rulers of Equestria, for they saw you all, and me as beings of mischief and bad people! Tonight shall be your victory day as the ponies will finally see the true power of your wrath! Show them that you all never forget! For when we win this battle, all of yours wildest desires and dreams shall come true...of course, a few may...perish if something goes wrong! But sacrifices are made for the best! Be prepared to move! And show no hesitation!"

Everyone cheers and cries out for battle, being fuelled by Discord's somewhat inspirational speech. They slowly start to march towards their destined locations for attack and waiting for the command.

The Man and Discord watches them march off along with Tara, Eitrig and Trixie, but M walks around Discord slowly "you know you can't trust them, especially Tara and Eitrig" he said.

Discord simply snorts "Trust them? Ha! Since when have they earned the right to even be acknowledged in my constant thoughts? Eitrig and Tara hate me but know this is their opportunity to achieve their goals, and this is a one in a life time chance they'll ever get. Even if they betray me...it'll all be too late for them."

M chuckles at the speech "we too have to be ready to set off, shall we Lord Discord?" he says, motioning Discord to follow.

---

Equestria, Unknown

After hours of training with Spirit, Joseph Brooklyn and Spike Sparkle are starting to remember their training from all those months ago in the land of Xenthur. The correct stances, styles, breathing and concentration. The times they spent failing at the spars, falling off the obstacle course but eventually finding their place. Joe is doing pull ups on a iron bar in a stone doorway, only wearing his black jeans and shoes. The human feels the sweat dripping off his face and body, burning feelings in the muscles...even after a few hours or training, he held strong but his mind is telling him to stop. But pain was something that has to be ignored, this was nothing! Being beaten to death and mentally hurt is much more than training.

Joseph Brooklyn grits his teeth together, still doing the pull ups 'I can do this! I remember now...Master Yang, Chardonnay, Miku...they all helped me become something better! If Kirk had to endure and train longer than me, so can I! I won't let my friends down...and I swear by my own life that I stop Discord's evil schemes!' he thought with determination.

Spike is practising his combat skills against Spirit throwing projectile objects at the gem dragon. Using the extended pole that he was given as a gift, Spike remembers the techniques he used in training and against the Diamond Dogs awhile ago. Swiftly like lighting speed, Spike does a flurry of moves that knock away the projectiles or dodging them, making the large unicorn smirk in approval.
The little dragon ponders for a moment 'everything I've done...I done for the attention of being loved, by Twilight, Joe, everyone! Even...Rarity. I made my own choice to believe in my brother, a good man! I will fight not only to protect the ones I love but to do something right...and this IS right.'

Spirit continues to observe the two training, it was incredible. They never stopped training, if only for a sip of water! Beliefs of trying to protect they care about or to stop Discord and this mysterious M person, to Spirit it was all he could ask for. As long as those two have something worth fighting for then what they're all doing is worth it, he just hopes it won't go to wastes if something happens to them. The unicorn chuckles 'Fascinating! This brings back memories from training in Xenthur for months! Guigan trained so hard to beat Kirk but failed and me? I don't like bragging but that Walrus lady, she got me a few times but I snagged it...except when she landed on my first time...ugh! That hurt! But my reasons were all revenge for my parents death and to this scar that witch gave to me...' he thinks, feeling the black scar on his left eye.

Spirit stomps his hoof and shouts "enough!"

Joseph and Spike immediately stops what they're doing and jogs over to the white unicorn who is sternly looking at them, seeing their sweat and tired out faces "alright...you two need rest now, I can't have you entering battle feeling tired and in pain from all of this."

Spike zooms over to a towel stand and gives one to Joe, both rubbing their faces "thank you General..."

General Spirit ponders something and looks to his left, staring at some large wooden doors "follow me...and Brooklyn, get your shirt back back on!"

Joe blushes faintly and runs over to get his t-shirt while Spike follow Spirit to the door the dragon snorts "what is it with oversized doors?"

The unicorn's horn glows a bit, making loud clanging sounds and chains moving the doors very slowly inward. Joe ran back to them and gaped at the wooden doors, almost as thick as an oak tree! But Spirit said nothing as he strides into a decently big room with marbled flouring, light blue marbled walls and the ceiling is also marbled but with square tiles that has colours from each of the rainbow. The lamb hanging on the ceiling is bright as a strong light bulb, all this makes the odd duo stare around in absolute awe. But what really caught their attention is that the walls had some square shaped hole, about 3 of them has some sort of special cushions and arm rests.
The General walks over to a hole on the wall, which happens to be the one in front you see as you walk in with grey cushions and he uses his magic to pull metal trays out. All contain a tea pot and some cranberry juice and some biscuits "sit, both of you" said Spirit

Joe and Spike slowly walks over to the holes in the walls and sat down, a few inches away from each other and Spirit but still in good view and hearing range. Both of them felt comfortable in their seats and looks towards their mentor who looks at the duo "these belonged to me, Kirk and Chariot...the human is in Kirk's seat and the dragon is sitting in Chariot's seat."

The human gasps, almost jumping out "I-I sitting in his seat!?"

Spirit raises a hoof in reassurance "stop that, I gave you orders to sit down and you're not trespassing. The reason why I brought you all in here to talk in this room specifically, so that you feel what us 3 had to do many years ago. This used to be my father's private quarters until...it was burnt down by the Witch but Kirk helped me rebuild this place, later on with Chariot's help too. This is the room where we all hanged out, talked about life in general, having laughs to serious conversations about events going on in Equestria and what we had to do to prevent them from happening. But the main goal was to destroy the Witch."

Spike looks towards the pony, leaning in his seat "but why are here still?"

Spirit looks towards him "Joseph Brooklyn reminds me of Kirk, not only being a human but for having the same amount of courage and determination. You in Chariot's chair...is because you're smarter than you actually think, one day you're going to be the smartest dragon alive."

Joe and Spike didn't know what to say, so Spirit decides to tell them some more information for their long curiosities "Spike, remember when you heard that a gem dragon trained in Xenthur?"

The gem dragon looks at him, intrigued from not hearing about this for quite some time "yeah...his name was Razor if I remember right?"

Spirit nods with acknowledgement "Yes...when me and Kirk firsted arrived in Xenthur to train, Razor was there training as well, it was acutally by accident that we met him. I kicked his leg once thinking I was hitting a target..." he says with a big grin at the end.

"He suddenly roar in pain and we began brawling like children, Kirk tried his best to break up the fight until Chardonnay did so! But we actually bonded with each other after that because Razor saw something in our eyes, striving for revenge. Because he was banished from the Dragonlands, back then the families were having massive disputes and waged war on each other to claim rights over the lands. Razor was one of the few who tried to stop it all by discussion until his clan leaders thought them as weakling with no place in the Dragonlands. And so he was cast away as a teenager, finding some shelter in Xenthur."

Spike looks on in interest "what happened to the rest of the gem dragons? And to Razor?"

Spirit looks at the colourful ceiling "after our training was done, Razor went onto to roam the world seeking new ways to find his inner dragon. But I remember when fighting the Witch, Razor out of nowhere assisted me and Kirk in battle. And after that, Razor thought he was good enough to return to his lands and seek out his people...and about the Gem Dragons? I have no idea...last time I ever had thought about it was that your race was dying out. And one of the reasons to seek mates."

The little gem dragon rubs his forehead in deep thought "my race...dying out?"

Joseph gives a look of sadness to Spike, hoping he wasn't the last Gem Dragon around "and...if you don't mind me asking, what about Kirk?"

General Spirit gives a long look at Joe, a question that never left his thought ever since the Galloping Gala meeting "ah yes...I said I would tell you more of him. Well, he was from Earth obviously, and around the age of 16 he was mysteriously teleported to Equestria by the Witch for some reason. Kirk was...how do it be put? Was not like you, bursting with confidence and cockiness...always looking to join a worthy fight to pass time. And had some manner issues! Ha! But deep down he cared what went on with good people's lives and tried his best to make them feel better...like me, helping recover from my home and family being destroyed. However, since Kirk met Chariot...things changed so much..."

Spike and Joe looks at each other in curiosity "like what?" Spike asks.

"Chariot was like a beacon of hope for Kirk, she took a great interest in Kirk because you know, him being human. But that dog.." Spirit smirks "he loved her personality, being kind but strict due to her job being Celestia's assistant at the time. They always talked about everything together...it almost got a point where they were falling for each other!" he says.

Joe leans forward, hands together "a-and what happened to them?"

Spirit looks down and drinks some tea "during the battle against the Witch, Chariot thought we won the battle on the fields of Ponyville...but the Witch noticed her and...and...struck her down. Kirk went berserk and...he charged her to which she teleported him and herself to a cliff..."

The odd duo listening intensely at Spirit's story of the battle, Spirit sighs more and continues "all Kirk told me was that she died from falling. Witch lost too much energy from their battle and met her demise at the rocky bottom. Kirk returned and we mourned the death of Chariot, and she left Kirk a special 'spell' that teleported him back to Earth. And that's what happened, we said our goodbyes and I thanked him from the bottom of my heart for all he done for me, being there not only to stop the Witch but also being my best friend..."

Spike leans back in awe "that's...quite something Spirit. You all went through a lot."

Joseph Brooklyn is looking down at the flour "b..but you're still not telling the whole details of the events, are you?"

The large unicorn stares at the young human and grunts "if I did, we'd be here all day and that is NOT what we're here for. You got your information and you better be damn happy about it! There a battle coming and we have to get ready!"

Joe rubs his face in frustration, he wanted to know more about Kirk's past and Spirit knows so much more. But he's right, there is battle coming very soon, and midnight is only 3 hours away "alright, where do we start?"

Spirit stands up and smiles "before we head out, I have something to give you. Follow me!"

---

Equestria, Canterlot

Princess Celestia is looking out of her balcony, staring at some guards walking around the training rounds, preparing themselves to move out when they have their orders. Celestia quickly turns around and walks into a meeting room "any news on the location on the whereabouts of Discord and the Man?" she asks politely.

An old pony with a long beard shakes his head shmafully "I am so sorry my princess, even our best scouts in all of Equestria can't find their whereabouts or these armies he somehow formed against us. But I do have some information that we may have some sort of devices of sorts they may use!"

Celestia gives him a curious look "devices? What are we talking about here Lorewalker?"

Lorewalker shivers and mumbles to himself "I am not entirely sure what they are capable of or if it's just scare tactics! But...from General Spirit's intelligence. They may be draining magical energy in 4 locations in Equestria."

Luna suddenly floats in and lands next to Princess Celestia "I am here sister! And I heard you Lorewalker, please continue!"

"I'm afraid that's all the information we can understand at this point, all we can do is have Spirit's soldiers stand on guard in our cities. Until then, all we can do is wait for the attack."

Celestia looks at her hooves then to Luna "dear sister, Spirit had been hiding some information, why is it that his soldiers found this information while we didn't? If he told us that he felt something wrong going on!-"

Princess Luna gently puts her hood on Celestia's mouth "Tia! Do not jump to conclusions! He must have had his reasons, he'd never betray us...he is absolutely loyal to you."

The Princess of the Sun sighs deeply, thinking back to the days when Spirit was little and how much he adored her when she visited his parent's mansion. They were really good ponies to her but after the house caught fire...that young Spirit changed forever, brooding and serious.
"I know...it's just...I will have words whenever I see General Spirit" said Celestia.

Luna smiles, nuzzling her sister's neck "don't worry, we're in this together...even if we lose this battle dear sister. I'll never leave you again."

Celestia hugs her smaller sister close, hoping things will come out right in the end. But deep down she knew this was going to be a very, very different conflict. If Discord is being serious with his plans and the new direction for taking Equestria through high violence. All she could ask for her little ponies is to be who they always were, be there for each others and use their abilities for defence 'Of my little ponies, stay strong for the up coming battle, I swear you will not be alone' she thinks to herself.

The Princess of the Moon looks over to Celestia, motioning to follow "come Tia, we need to continue our search for Discord and M."

---

Equestria, Unknown

Spirit, Spike and Joseph walks down a hallway, they see the entrance to a chamber. Beyond the pair of worn statues lies a small, worn room. It's covered in prized pieces from around Equestria and Xenthur. Torches still burn after many years of being lit, giving the room great lighting. They see pillars holding the ceiling, Spike and Joe once again, stares in awe at the underground base, clearly Kirk, Chariot and Spirit spent a lot of time and dedication down here. But Joe notices something hanging on a wall that the light is beaming upon, a set of armour.
Spirit notices Joe's gaze "that there, was Kirk's armour when we went around Equestria and finally fought with the Witch."

The shoulders are pointy, quite narrow and huge. They're decorated with a row of metal feathers, all pointing upwards. The row reaches from side to side. And the upper arms are protected by rounded, half covering rerebraces which sit well under the shoulder plates. The lower arms are covered by vambraces. The breastplate is made from many layers of rounded metal sheets. It covers almost everything from the neck down and ending at the groin, but the sides are only covered near the bottom. And the upper legs are covered by rounded, half covering cuisses. Lower legs are protected by greaves which have rows upon rows of small metal piece, mimicking fish scales.
Spike's jaw nearly drops and stares at Spirit "d-dude...how did Kirk get this!?" he shouts.

"This was made in Xenthur by a black smith north east of the country, where it's more common to find metals in that region. It was a gift from Chardonnay because Kirk even with attitude and bad manners, he was honourable towards Miku's father, Guigan and fought very well. We spent nearly a year of our lives there, we both matured a bit..."

Joseph walks up to the armour set and touches the boots "so...why are we here?" he asks.

Spirit motions to the armour again "because I want you to wear the armour."

The boy staggers a bit in total shock "what!? But...I can't! And it would not fit!"

"Joseph Brooklyn, listen to me. There is a battle that will happen very soon, if we're ready to fight and defend our bodies. Might as well dig our graves for the enemy. And I personally believe you are worthy of putting it on..." said Spirit, using his magic to take the armour down and hands them to Joe.

Joe didn't know what to say, he is going to wear the legendary and first human in Equestria's armour. Part of him felt ashamed to wear it, since Kirk went through much, much more than Joseph in training, time in Xenthur and Equestria...plus losing Chariot. However, if Spirit believed in him and thinks he's worthy enough wearing this armour, how can he refuse?
"Okay...I'll wear this, can I change somewhere?"

Spirit rolls his eyes and face hoofs "really? There's two males here and- ugh! Door on the left! And make it quick!" he shouts, making Joseph running towards the room.

The little gem dragon sniggers to himself and looks up to the General "and me?"

Spirit looks down and smirks "I almost forgot! There is a helmet and metal skirt for you to wear in that corner" he points.

Spike Sparkle looks blankly at the corner and shakes his head "...yeaaah...I think I'll just go as I am thanks..."

About nearly 10 minutes, Joseph Brooklyn walks out wearing the armour that once belonged to Kirk, the boy adjusted everything to ensure it's on and comfortable. Spirit smiles a sigh of relief 'the armour fits snug, as if it was for the boy. Kirk, you should feel proud.'

The Gem dragon looks amazed at Joe's transformation and grins in glee "dude! You look awesome! Like a real warrior!"

Joe blushes slightly "thanks Spike..."

Spike snorts and then points to a wall "boy! Run over to that wall!"

"Huh? Why?"

"Because I think it's funny and I can say so! Run to the wall!" Spirit shouts.

Joseph groans loudly at Spirit's demanding and pointless commands, but this IS his home and actually giving Spike and Joe a LOT of his respect and trust. So best not to trend on him, and so the human in new armour starts running to the other side of the wall.
However, as Spirit watches Joe running, things suddenly went into slow motion, as Joe ran past a pillar, he changed! The unicorn's eyes widen and gasps softly, seeing Kirk slowly running towards the wall. His hair is spiky and messier, some hair on his jaw...Spirit didn't know what to do, he is seeing his old friend running. But as soon as he ran past another pillar, the vision of Kirk turned to Joseph in the armour. General Spirit blinks and rubs his eyes "Kirk...Spike! Did you see him!?"

Spike looks at Spirit strangely "Um...No? You feeling okay dude?"

The large unicorn stands with utter shock, seeing a vision of a long time best friend running across the room. Spirit slowly smiles and laughs 'Ha...It seems that Kirk and Joe are almost the same! I think the Secret- No, the Guardians of Equestria is reborn for this occasion!'

Joseph Brooklyn runs back towards Spirit with hands on hips "okay, I done as you asked sir. Anything else I should be doing?"

Spirit grins widely and pats Joe and Spike's head "you two are coming with me! We got a battle to win!" he storms out with pride.

Joseph and Spike looks at each other, very confused at the General's sudden personality, but both deciding it is time for them to prepare themselves for battle.
Spirit motions for the odd duo to hop on his back and begins talking to them "Okay, listen up! I've been doing my research on what Discord is planning on doing! My spies and scouts have told me they're using some sort of devices..."

Spike holds into Spirit's greasy mane "W-wait! Where're we going?" he says.

Spirit grunts out "we're going to Ponyville!"

Joseph's heart beat increases, body feeling cold...he cannot imagine what the girls and everypony are feeling because of the upcoming battle and the recent revelation of Joe's past to the ones he loves dearly. What will they say to him? Or what will they do? It actually scared him more than The End Times.
Spike notices Joe's fear but gently pats the larger hand "it's okay Joseph, I'm here with you all the way!"

The human smiles and kisses the top of Spike's head "Spike, thank you so much...you're a true brother to me."

---

Earth, New York City

Gregory Brooklyn is walking in central park, looking like life is all but lost for the man. He looks around, seeing the heavy pouring rain and dark clouds, creating massive loud thunderclaps "I'm sorry Joseph...if only I was a better father for you!" he shouts.

Gregory feels his mobile phone ringing, hesitantly, he grabs it out his pocket and answers "hello?"

"Greg! Thank god! I haven't heard from you in ages! You weren't answering the phone or responding to my emails!" it's Frank, Gregory's friend since he joined the business career and last seen each other after they got taxis.

"Frank, I'm so sorry...but everyone has given up on searching for my son, I'm looking for him. But there is nothing...NOTHING! Frank, I failed my son! What have I become?! I thought I could've done so good and raise a loving family unlike my father! I've become just like him!" Greg bursts out, letting all the emotions out he's been holding in for so long.

Frank stammers and tries to get sense into his friend "G-Gregory! Please! Where are you? I-I'll come get you and we can talk to each other!"

Gregory falls into his knees and tears stream down his face "...I'm...in central park, Sheep Meadow..."

"okay, just...go to Tavern on the Green and I'll meet you there! If you wanna eat something, I'll pay for you! Just please, PLEASE don't do anything to yourself! Promise me!" Frank begs.

Gregory Brooklyn slowly stands up and clenches his chest, sniffing and sobbing softly "s...sure..."

Suddenly, he hears a tiny crack and light gently envelopes around him, feeling warm and sheltered from the rain. Making the sounds of wind blowing, slowly becoming higher and higher in pitch! Gregory gasps in shock, looking "w-what!?"

"Gregory!? GREG! What's happening!?" Frank shouts over the phone, hearing the noises and his friend's voice.

Greg accidentally drops the phone and feels himself being lifted up, the light starts to suck his body into a unsearchable void. This sensation is like losing pieces of himself, with one last effort he manages to scream out "AHHHH!" before disappearing into thin air.

And all he could see is darkness, Greg wonders if he just died from that...from only touching his crystal this all happened. But suddenly the memories appear like yesterday! Gregory's eyes shoot open and doesn't feel, hear and see any rain. Only fields that doesn't match central park at all...looking around he notices the grass is greener than anything he had ever seen before! The wind is fresh and pure and notices a lake that is clear as day!
Gregory realises something runs up a steep hill, his heart races with each step he takes and when the human finally reaches the top. His heart skips a beat and sees a castle in the distance, a tear drops from his face...Gregory whispers softly "Equestria..."

To Be Continued

Hello everyone! I have FINALLY returned to update this story! I really hope you enjoyed the story!

And again, I really am sorry for the long delays, but due to being me which is terrible! That I've been again, lazy, doing work and playing on video games too much, especially the Overwatch Early Access and the open beta! I will say, I really love the game and hope one day we all can play together on PC! Oh, pre-ordered Total War Warhammer! AND...I got a Wii U!

All that aside, I can understand if you all got tired of my irregular updates and moved onto other stuff, but I will always say this again and again. I will NEVER abandon this story, it's much to me something I'm passionate about for all these years and I never got tired of doing it! It's all thanks to you the fans who is still helping me with words of motivation! Without your interests, this story would of been how I originally planed, being only 7 or 8 chapters long. Look where we all are today! 25 chapters and 435 reviews! You've all helped me grow in story, characters, atmosphere and (even though I'm failing hard) grammar, tenses and punctuation! God the last 3 I'll never get right...

Thank you all so much for staying with me, this story has changed my life and I hope you all will stay long enough for me to finish this overdue story! I want to finish this before the end of this year! So that's a personal goal for me but I am going to do my best in delivering a satisfying conclusion to this story!

Please R&R since it really helps! Your advice, constructive criticism, words of motivation helps me get through and learn better!

See you all next time!

And remember...FOR THE BRONIES!